NASA sends invites to US companies to develop commercial space stations

NASA is taking the next steps in human spaceflight by inviting American companies to submit proposals for the next generation of commercial space stations

By asking US companies to propose the next generation of commercial space stations, NASA is ensuring the US remains present in low Earth orbit after the International Space Station (ISS) retires.

Announced on October 9, 2026, the final Request for Proposals outlines NASA’s plans to work with private industry to develop, build and operate commercial destinations in space. These stations could support scientific research, technology development and astronaut training while preparing for future missions to the Moon and Mars.

The next generation of commercial space stations

NASA wants commercial space stations to play a bigger role in low Earth orbit, letting private companies develop and operate facilities that serve both government and commercial customers.

They believe this approach could create new opportunities for the American space industry while letting NASA focus more resources on ambitious exploration programmes beyond Earth orbit.

Commercial stations would need to provide the infrastructure required for human spaceflight, including research facilities and transportation services. Companies would also be expected to demonstrate that their proposed stations could operate safely and reliably while meeting NASA’s technical requirements.

NASA Works Closely with Industry

The latest announcement follows months of engagement between NASA and private space companies to shape the future of low Earth orbit operations.

In March, the agency published two Requests for Information to gather industry feedback on potential space destinations and transportation services, followed in July by a draft Request for Proposals that allowed companies to review the proposed requirements.

NASA also held an industry day and individual meetings with interested organisations to discuss the planned procurement process and gather feedback before releasing the final solicitation.

The agency is now looking for proposals that combine strong technical capabilities with realistic business plans. Commercial space stations will need to attract customers beyond NASA to establish sustainable operations over the long term.

Contract awards expected in 2027

Companies must submit proposals by December 8, 2026, and NASA expects to award contracts in spring 2027.

NASA plans to use firm-fixed-price, multi-award contracts under an indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity arrangement. This structure will let the agency support multiple companies during early development.

Two or more contractors are expected to be selected for initial development work. NASA will then hold a further competition to select providers to move forward with final design, testing, evaluation, certification, and operational services.

Securing America’s future in orbit

The transition to commercial space stations represents an important shift in how NASA plans to maintain its presence in low Earth orbit.

By partnering with private companies, the agency hopes to establish a sustainable successor to the ISS, encourage innovation, and open new markets in space.

The programme’s success will depend on whether companies can deliver safe, capable stations and develop business models that remain viable beyond NASA’s initial support. If successful, the initiative could help secure a long-term future for research and human activity in orbit while supporting America’s wider ambitions for lunar and Martian exploration.